We had the good fortune of connecting with Guadalupe Magos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Guadalupe, what can you share with us about hwo Covid-19 has affected your business?
When COVID-19 started to rise, I was perhaps one of the few that was taking it lightly. Lightly in the sense that, I never thought something like my ability to walk freely outside my house without a mask would ever happen. In mid February, I decided to start a small business called The Vintage Views. I had been thrifting quite a few in search of items to fill my home and it was during one of those searches that I realized how much I love to thrift. I’ve always had patience to sift through clothes and all items really, because I believe the best most gorgeous gems are hidden and waiting to be discovered at the thrift stores. So, I went for it! I opened the virtual “doors” of my shop and it started off incredibly successful. It wasn’t until about three weeks later when everything started to spiral and get out of hand with COVID-19. I had some items available that lasted me for a few more postings but soon my business became to a halt. Thrift stores closed and it’s left me without the ability to go sourcing for my customers. On the other hand, I have my personal blog, which I’ve been working very hard to grow over the past 3 years. Although that too presented its challenges by not being able to go outside and shoot for content it has motivated me to be more creative with my posts and creating indoors. Its been hard on both of my businesses but I’m definitely trying to stay positive and in high spirits for my own mental well being but also for my followers.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Aside from blogging and being a small start up business owner, I work for a nurse traveling company-specifically in the payroll customer support department. I’ve been there for a little over 2 years, and I never thought I’d be working alongside health care professionals during such critical times. The past month or so has been perhaps the most stressful time for me while working for this company. But I do believe that ambiguity and endurance are key! Our healthcare providers are couting on us to ensure pay is processed for them during these uncertain times and it’s definitely rewarding to know you’re a part of that contribution. A career in payroll/accounting was actually not something I envisioned for my life. I’m a writer at heart, I’ve always been, which is truly the reason why I started blogging in the first place. My dream was to be a journalist and make it to New York for my big break some day. After that dream, didn’t happen I decided that writing was something I could never part from. So, I started a blog to have a space to share my love for all things through writing and motivate and encourage others along the way. Although my every day working life is behind a desk and not out in the field reporting for a big news story or creating a piece for an editorial, I embrace and am proud of the service I provide at my job. I feel so blessed to be able to share every day life tips and encourage people when I blog or engage on Instagram, and same at work by providing exceptional service to healthcare professionals. It’s so easy to get caught up in the 9-5 jobs and all the weight the world brings, but somewhere in the midst of it all there has to be something that makes you happy. Hold on to that and put it to practice every day! That’s what makes life worth living.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Ah, I love this! San Diego is one of the most versatile places as far as food and activities. There is so much culture here and that is what truly makes it special. Coffee is special for me. Like, very very special. I have several places I could say are most definitely favorites but a one that is nearby and delicious is S3 coffee. They are the true definition of creative with coffee and tea. It’s girly, it’s quirky, it’s delicious and they are instagramable! So many beautiful areas to snap that perfect picture! Pot Head, located in downtown is one of the also many favorite places that has amazing breakfast. Specifically their breakfast sandwiches! Come with an appetite though because they’re portions are huge! If its lunch/brunch time Cafe 21 if you’re feeling earthy, want fun dishes, and want delicious cocktails or mocktails or Madeline Cafe if you’re feeling French, which I feel quite often honestly. Give me coffee and bread any time of the day. A must visit place is Liberty Station. It’s famous for being previous naval base, but also for its indoor market. It’s filled with amazing food from all over the world! Do yourself a favor and stop by Paraná Empanadas Argentinas, which ever one you get will be delicious I promise! There is just so much history here and so much to do. The Lot is also located at Liberty Station, they’re movie theater is my all time favorite along with the restaurant. There’s always something happening at The Lot, from dancing classes to trivia! For dinner and drinks, give me ramen, pasta or Mexican and I’m happy. A place with amazing atmosphere and dancing, is King and Queen cantina in downtown/little Italy. Great Mexican food and margarita flight, with of course the best music! Since were in the little Italy area, if you’re feeling pasta Monellos’ cheese wheel pasta is waiting for you. Yes, you heard right, pasta cooked in a cheese wheel. Now, pair that with a nice glass of red wine. Please do yourself a favor and go! Lastly for dinner, ramen. Ramen is comfort for me, it’s cozy, it’s happiness, it’s a bowl of goodness. Underbelly Norrh Park hands down. Get the Underbelly ramen and add oxtail dumplings. You’re welcome. When I want to wins down and just gaze over beauty I go to Kate O. Sessions park. I’ve been there with my family many times and this place has an incredible amount of peace and relaxation. It gets crowded but it still finds its way to bring you that peace. Last but not least, dessert anyone? Tocumbo Ice Cream shop! Located over in Market Ave, filled with Mexican ice cream delicacies, ice cream, mangoneadas, and tons of goodies!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My fiance deserves a huge shout out! He is the guy behind the camera, the one who also gets creative for poses, who captures me at my best, who has put up with every single mood swing when photo shots dont go right. Just my over all support! I also have been very lucky in meeting amazing creatives along the way. There have been several amazing gals who are not afraid to share tips and give support. In the blogging business women empowerment is huge and I feel very blessed to be around storng, talented women.

Website: www.guadalupemagos.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewonderfulbeing/

Image Credits
Photo taken by: Byron Porter @lifestyle